Juba County Authorities start crack down on vendors selling on streets

By Jenifer James

Juba County authorities have commenced hard crack down on vendors along major streets in Juba city.

The Commissioner of Juba County, Emmanuel Tete Ezbon, during the tour of Gumbo market on Saturday urged traders to stop selling goods along roadsides, emphasizing that roads are intended for vehicles and transportation.

“Roads are not meant for selling goods but for the movement of cars and transport. We will continue inspecting markets to ensure that people no longer sell on the roads,” said Ezbon.

Ezbon disclosed plans to verify the medical certification of restaurant workers in local markets, adding that these measures aim to prevent the spread of diseases such as cholera within the county.

For his part, Samuel Pitia Wani, Director of Public Order in Juba County, condemned roadside vending.

“We, as the government, will persist with market inspections and reorganization efforts within Juba County until next year,” he stated.

However Martin Morris Gore, Director of Rajaf Payam, expressed concern over traders abandoning designated markets to sell along roads in Gumbo.

He warned of the dangers this practice poses to both traders and road users in case of accidents.

Gore further cautioned traders against continuing the practice, announcing penalties for those found selling along the roads starting Monday.

 “Today is a warning, but from Monday, if you’re caught selling on the roads, you will face a fine,” he said.

Authorities are determined to reorganize markets and enhance public safety as part of broader efforts to regulate trade in the county.

Last week the commissioner of Juba county announced plans to crack down on vendors starting in Gudele two moving on to the entire Juba county.